July 21 2009

Paul Ifill

Former Crystal Palace winger Paul Ifill has joined New Zealand club Wellington Phoenix.

Ifill was one of several players told they no longer had a future at Selhurst Park and was released at the end of the season.

The 29-year-old impressed on the flank or up front at times but a series of niggling injuries affected his form and he was never consistent enough.

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said: "There has always been a lot of pressure around signing a marquee-type player but we believed it was important to find the sort of player that was hungry to achieve and still had the passion to bring something to the club.

"In that respect we had very good reports regarding Paul and we are delighted to sign him. We wanted the right people and we're pleased we've got that.

"Paul has pace, height and international experience - all the qualities we were looking for."

Ifill, who was recently on trial with home town club Brighton, made 67 appearances and found the net 10 times after signing from Sheffield United for £750,000 in 2005.